Ultrasound of Ligaments and Bone

The development of high-frequency transducers allows excellent visualization of ligaments. Normal ligaments are hyperechoic and are 2 to 3 mm in width. Ligamentous tear may occur acutely or chronically. Tear is characterized by swelling of the ligament, discontinuity, redundancy, and retraction. Ultrasound evaluation of bone is rarely requested, but the radiologist should be aware of incidental findings in bone, particularly fracture. In the setting of biopsy and osteomyelitis, ultrasound can be very useful.